SWOT Analysis Les Maisonnettes Strengths Les Maisonnettes is a socially responsible business.

. (Line 1) High quality buildings that guests always comment on. All cottages have retained their traditional French style. (line 19) In 2007, the FTB rated Les Maisonnettes very highly amongst other rural accommodation providers. (Line 34) Close proximity to St Germain (Line 11) Rated highly by Logis De France two fireplaces (line 54) Has a programme of activities that add value to Les Maisonnettes. (Line 85) Support received from Sophies parents experienced business owners. Loyal friends who work for her. (Line 95). Sophie can adopt a paternalistic leadership style. Eco-tourism as Les Maisonnettes unique selling point. Sophie is a member of the AFE, an NGO. The business has grown from a B&B to offer further services. Strong reputation, many customers are returning customers (Line 57) Opportunities Developing a joint venture with a local winery. (Line 33) Eco-tourism a growing niche market and many Europeans are attracted to it (Line 36) The opportunities raised from having Les Maisonnettes advertised on the Logis De Frances website and in their brochures. (Line 49). The opportunity to develop holiday packages combining weekly stays with cooking workshops. (Line 91). The opportunities the internet will provide. Sophie plans to set up a business website with online booking facilities. (Line 130). The internet can also develop links with other eco-tourist providers. (Line 132) and raise awareness of Les Maisonnettes. The opportunity to raise prices during peak season, (Line 64) Weaknesses Lack of continuity and high levels of staff turnover. (Line 29) Few visitors from the age group 18-30 (those who most likely to be eco-tourists with above average income). (Line 60). Changes need to be made to the marketing. (Line 66). There is little, apart from eco-tourism that differentiates Les Maisonnettes from other B&Bs. (Line 83). High staff absences and poor punctuality (line 100). Low salaries offered to employees (Line 112). Sophies staff are not suitably trained more training required. (Line 120). Falling profit margins. (Appendix 3) The disadvantages of Sophies paternalistic leadership style. High gearing? To calculate No company website. Rely on word of mouth for customers.

Threats Surplus of holiday accommodation in the region Sophie may have to lower prices as a result. (Line 67) Sanctuary global leisure company, is now 30 minutes away from Les Maisonnettes. (Line 71). Having them may also lead to local labour shortages (line 102) Faced with increasing competition, Sophie is finding it harder to attract new customers. (Line 84) New EU legislation on health and safety requires improved training facilities a cost implication for Les Maisonnettes. (Line 114). House prices are falling, causing more people to rent out their homes rather than sell them. This also causes increased competition. (Line 124). Demographic changes fewer younger employees. (Line 126). Also, fewer young

25% annual growth rate in eco-tourism sector. (Line 136). The development of the new motorway and airport has improved local infrastructure. (Line 143). The 4 options are all opportunities.

people moving to Lyon. Weather conditions have meant a loss of revenue (with cancellations), causing insurance premiums to go up. (Line 148). From 2010, Sanctuary working with Fly Fare to offer 10% discount (Line 75)